New Zealand cricket opener Martin Guptill has announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of a stellar 14-year career that made him one of the most significant figures in New Zealand’s cricketing history. Guptill, aged 38, leaves the international scene with numerous records and achievements, having represented his country in over 360 international matches.
Key Career Achievements:
International Centuries: Guptill has scored 23 international centuries in all three formats, including a record-breaking double-century.
T20I Record: He remains New Zealand’s highest run-scorer in T20Is, with 3,531 runs in 122 matches.
ODI Career: Guptill scored 7,346 runs in ODIs, placing him third in New Zealand’s all-time list of top run-scorers, behind Ross Taylor and Stephen Fleming.
World Cup Icon: Guptill was the first New Zealand batter to score an ODI double-century when he scored 237* against the West Indies during the 2015 World Cup quarter-final.
Legendary Run-Out: He is also famous for his match-winning run-out of M.S. Dhoni in the 2019 World Cup semi-final, a moment that helped New Zealand secure a memorable victory.
Personal Reflections:
In his statement announcing retirement, Guptill said he felt proud of what he had accomplished and thanked teammates, coaches, and family members. He cited long-time coach Mark O’Donnell, who had worked with him since the Under-19s into his international career. Guptill also credited his wife Laura and children Harley and Teddy, thanking them for their support.
Continued Presence in T20 Leagues
Though Guptill has retired from international cricket, he will remain active in different T20 leagues around the world, which keeps him busy with the shorter version of the game.
Honoring at Eden Park:
Guptill will receive a formal send-off during New Zealand’s third ODI against Sri Lanka on 11 January, 2025, at Eden Park, where he remains New Zealand’s all-time leading run scorer.
Tributes from fellow teammates:
Tom Latham, the Test captain of New Zealand, was appreciative of Guptill as they had opened together for a number of years. Latham says that it was Guptill who consistently batted well and won games for New Zealand all these years.
Martin Guptill’s retirement closes a remarkable chapter in New Zealand cricket, leaving behind a legacy of countless records and contributions to the sport. His journey from a young cricketer to a respected leader will remain an inspiration for future generations of players.